Vignette 92: Prodigious musician teaches her students to defy convention

Dr Ruby Davy (1883–1949), born in Salisbury, was a significant figure in Australian music. A remarkable talent, she overcame societal barriers to become the first Australian woman to earn a Doctorate of Music.

A musical prodigy, Davy composed a cantata when she was just nine years old. By the age of 13, she was teaching 27 of her own pupils, and after graduating from the Elder Conservatorium of Music in 1907, she continued to teach and perform while pursuing her Doctorate of Music. 

Davy’s love of music took her all over the world, teaching and performing in Melbourne and touring between England, Europe, Canada, and America between 1939 and 1942.

Her contributions to music and education have inspired generations of musicians, and today, the Dr Ruby Davy Prize for Composition continues to honour her legacy.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Leading for the future. p.126